While seniors are fighting back senioritis, other high school students are starting to think about what their class schedules will look like next year. If you’re a current freshman, sophomore, or junior here are five tips for academic planning success:
1.Consider your current major/career goals
Are you the next Freud? Then you may want to incorporate AP Psychology into your schedule. Do your plans involve majoring in business? If so, it may make sense to choose calculus over statistics. If a science-related degree is in your future, shoot for those rigorous science classes.
This allows colleges to see that you’re challenging yourself in areas related to your intended major. It also gives them a peek into how you handle the rigorous coursework. Your experiences in those major-related classes can often come in handy when it’s time to write supplemental essays too!
2.Consider your strengths
Maybe you’re planning to apply to college as an undecided major or are currently deciding between approximately 17 very different options - that’s totally understandable! In that case, I’d suggest thinking about your strengths: where are you currently seeing the highest grades? Which classes are you enjoying the most? It probably makes sense to try to challenge yourself by moving up a level in those areas.
3.Consider what your transcript looks like right now
When reviewing transcripts, admissions counselors often look at the student’s trajectory over the last few years. The goal is to show an upward trajectory in grades and rigor but that can be achieved in many different ways. It all depends on the student’s situation.
Are you a current sophomore with straight As that has only taken on-level classes? It sounds like it’s time to tackle a few honors and/or AP classes. Did you have a bumpy experience in ninth grade? Don’t be afraid to stick with on-level classes and aim for stronger grades sophomore year!
4.Consider options outside of the classes your high school offers
Every high school offers a different set of classes - the majority of the time students don’t need to go beyond what’s offered. However, don’t forget that it is an option!
Perhaps you’re a budding programmer outside the classroom but your school doesn’t offer AP Computer Science. Look into taking the class at accredited online high schools instead. Even if your high school doesn’t allow outside classes to be counted towards graduation requirements, it will still be seen on your college applications.
5.Consider what else you have on your plate
Academics is only one part of high school - when putting together your schedule think about what else you’ll have on your plate next year. Seniors, remember that writing colleges essays takes up time during the fall semester! Juniors, remember that you’ll likely be studying for the ACT/SAT during the school year. Make sure that your schoolwork won’t be overwhelming when added to your other responsibilities and that you leave time to have fun too!